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Mortgage Glossary

Principal

Defined by Onias Derilus, Mortgage Capital · NMLS# 1859012 · Florida licensed mortgage broker

Principal is the amount you originally borrow on a mortgage, and the remaining balance you still owe over time.

What Principal means

Each payment reduces principal a bit more as the loan amortizes. Paying extra toward principal shrinks the balance faster, shortens the term, and cuts total interest.

Florida example

A Florida borrower with a $350,000 starting principal who adds $200 a month toward principal can shave years off a 30-year loan and save tens of thousands in interest over its life.

What principal means

Principal is the amount you still owe on your loan, not counting interest. Each payment lowers it a little at a time.

As the principal drops, you build equity in your home.

Why it matters

Paying extra toward principal shrinks your balance faster and saves interest. Even small extra payments add up.

We show how extra principal payments help you. Apply now and we will map a payoff plan for you.

Related program: Learn more →

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Related Mortgage Terms

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI)Promissory NoteProperty Tax
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